Executive Director, Partner, Clinical Supervisor, Therapist
Psychology Today Profile | Email Melissa
NJ LPC 37PC00376700, NJ LCADC 37LC00191000
MY PHILOSOPHY: I’m often asked why people do the things we do and my best answer is because whatever it is we keep doing is working in some way…or at least we convince ourselves it’s working. So human beings keep doing things that are ineffective, hurtful, or just plain destructive to themselves or others until they realize they’re getting nowhere fast. To help you get off the giant hamster wheel of life I use several therapeutic techniques to raise your awareness of how you hinder your own personal satisfaction; help you change the way you think about yourself, others, and/or situations; increase your motivation to engage in changing your behavior and beliefs; and help you set and follow through on achieving personal goals. I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). I have completed the 3 day practicum training at the Albert Ellis Institute in New York City and many seminars in CBT, REBT, and MI. I am currently learning about Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and the use of Mindfulness in therapy.
EXPERIENCE: I entered the field of mental health treatment in 1999 following a brief career as an auditor in New York City. I completed my MA in Community Counseling at The College of New Jersey in 2005, became a National Certified Counselor (NCC) in 2005, and obtained full licensure as an LPC in 2008. My experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings including Carrier Clinic (Blake Detox Center, Outpatient Services), Princeton House (inpatient Services), Crawford House, Princeton University Counseling & Psychological Services (internship), Catholic Charities Project FREE in Asbury Park, and Intensive In Community services prior to devoting my time to private practice.
SERVICES PROVIDED: Individual, Groups, Couples therapy, Clinical Supervision for individuals working toward LPC licensure
AGES I WORK WITH: Adults 18+
COMMON ISSUES ADDRESSED: I am a specialist in the treatment of substance use and other addictive behaviors. I have expertise in helping individuals diagnosed with bipolar and related disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive and related disorders, PTSD and other stress related disorders, and borderline personality disorder. I also have extensive experience working with LGBTQ individuals, couples, and families.